85-year-old Tiwari, who has virtually been sidelined
by his party after he was forced to quit as Governor of Andhra
Pradesh in December last year following a sex scandal, walked
to the dais with the support of his close aides and sat till
the completion of the function, where he was the only Congress
leader present.

The gesture surprised the guests as though it was a
government function but Congress leaders usually avoid any
such event by the BJP government in the state.

"I am glad that Tiwariji is among us. Tiwariji has
played a long public innings. He has a vision for development.

Our earnest endeavour will be to take benefit of his vast
administrative experience," said Nishank in his speech.